The Step‑by‑Step Guide to an Uncontested Divorce in Texas A calm, clear guide for couples who want a straightforward path

If you and your spouse agree on the major terms of your divorce, Texas law allows a simpler, more predictable process. This is called an uncontested divorce, and it’s often the most peaceful way to move forward.

Many people are surprised to learn that the steps are clear and manageable. You can handle the process yourself — and some couples do. But for many, having an attorney prepare the documents and guide the filing removes stress and prevents mistakes.

Here’s a steady, step‑by‑step look at how uncontested divorce works in Texas.

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1. Confirm that your case qualifies as uncontested

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on:

- Property division 

- Debt division 

- Parenting arrangements (if applicable) 

- Spousal support (if any) 

- The decision to divorce itself 

If you’re aligned on these points, you’re already in the right place.

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2. Prepare the initial paperwork

Every Texas divorce begins with the Original Petition for Divorce. 

You’ll also need:

- A Civil Case Information Sheet 

- A waiver of service or a signed answer 

- County‑specific forms (these vary across Texas)

The forms aren’t impossible — just unfamiliar. Small mistakes can delay the case.

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3. File the petition with the correct county

You must file in a county where:

- Either spouse has lived for at least 90 days, and 

- One spouse has lived in Texas for at least six months 

Once filed, the 60‑day waiting period begins.

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4. Handle service (or the waiver)

Your spouse must be formally notified unless they sign a Waiver of Service. 

In uncontested cases, most spouses choose the waiver because it’s simpler.

The waiver must be:

- Signed after the petition is filed 

- Notarized 

- Filed with the court 

This is a common place for DIY errors.

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5. Draft the Final Decree of Divorce

This is the document the judge signs. It must include:

- Property and debt division 

- Parenting plan (if applicable) 

- Required statutory language 

- County‑specific provisions 

The decree must be precise. If something is missing, the judge may refuse to sign it — or the decree may cause problems later.

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6. Signatures and final review

Both spouses review and sign the decree. 

If children are involved, additional forms may be required.

This is where many couples realize the value of having an attorney: 

everything is correct, accepted, and complete.

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7. Final hearing or judge review

Some counties require a brief hearing. Others allow the judge to sign without one.

Once the judge signs:

- Your divorce is final 

- You receive a certified copy 

- You can move forward with clarity 

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Can you do this yourself? Yes. Should you? It depends.

Texas allows you to handle an uncontested divorce without an attorney. 

If you’re comfortable with legal forms and court procedures, it’s possible.

But many people prefer to have the process handled for them because:

- The paperwork is detailed 

- County requirements vary 

- Mistakes can delay the case 

- The decree must be drafted carefully 

- It’s easy to miss something important 

For many couples, the peace of mind is worth the flat fee.

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A steady path forward

If you and your spouse want a calm, predictable process, uncontested divorce is often the best option. Whether you choose to handle it yourself or want everything prepared and filed for you, the steps are clear — and the path is manageable.

If you’d like help, I’m here to make the process simple, steady, and conflict‑free from start to finish.